free essays on human trafficking

5 Essays On Human Trafficking You Can Access Freely Online

Every country faces specific human rights issues, but human trafficking is a problem for every place on the planet. Wherever there’s poverty, conflict, a lack of education, or political instability, vulnerable people are at risk. Human trafficking is the world’s fastest-growing criminal industry. Sexual exploitation brings in most of the billions of dollars of profit, but forced labor also generates wealth. The universality of human trafficking doesn’t negate the fact that the issue is multi-faceted and as a multitude of root causes . Certain countries are more dangerous than others and certain people groups are more vulnerable. To learn more about specific human trafficking issues and solutions, here are five essays you can read or download for free:

“Human Trafficking and Exploitation: A Global Health Concern”

By: Cathy Zimmerman and Ligia Kiss

While labor migration can be beneficial to workers and employers, it’s also a hotbed for exploitation. In this essay from PLOS, the authors argue that human trafficking and the exploitation of low-wage workers have significant negative health impacts. Because of the magnitude of human trafficking, health concerns constitute a public health problem. Thanks to certain business models that depend on disposable labor, exploitation is allowed to flourish while protections are weakened. The essay states that trafficking initiatives must focus on stopping exploitation within each stage of labor migration. This essay introduces a special collection from PLOS on human trafficking and health. It’s the first medical journal collection on this topic. It includes pieces on child sex trafficking in the United States and the slavery of sea workers in South East Asia. Cathy Zimmerman and Ligia Kiss, the guest editors and authors of the first essay, are from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.

“Introducing The Slave Next Door”

By: Jen Birks and Alison Gardner

Published in a special issue of the Anti-Trafficking Review on public perceptions and responses to human trafficking, this essay focuses on Great Britain. According to the essay, there’s been a shift in what the public thinks about trafficking based on local reporting and anti-slavery campaigns. British communities are starting to realize how prevalent human trafficking is in their own backyards. The essay takes a closer look at the media and campaigns, how they’re representing cases, and what people are doing with the information. While specific to Britain, it’s a good example of how people can perceive trafficking within their borders.

Jen Birks is an Assistant Professor in media at the Department of Cultural, Media, and visual Studies at the University of Nottingham. Alison Gardner is at the School of Sociology and Social Policy at the University of Nottingham with a Nottingham Research Fellowship. She is part of the university’s Rights Lab.

“My Family’s Slave”

By: Alex Tizon

One of The Atlantic’s biggest stories of 2017, this essay tells a personal story of modern slavery. At 18-years old, Lola was given to the writer’s mother and when they moved to the United States, Lola came with them. On the outside, Tizon’s family was, in his words, “a poster family.” The truth was much darker. The essay sparked countless reader responses, including those of people who were once slaves themselves. Reading both the criticism and praise of the essay is just as valuable as the essay itself.

Alex Tizon died at age 57 years old before his essay was published. He had a successful career as a writer and reporter, sharing a Pulitzer Prize while a staff member at The Seattle Times. He also published a 2014 memoir Big Little Man: In Search of My Asian Self.

“Vietnam’s Human Trafficking Problem Is Too Big To Ignore”

By: Thoi Nguyen

In November 2019, 39 Vietnamese people were found dead in a truck container. They were identified as victims of a human trafficking ring. In Nguyen’s article, he explores the facts about the severity of human trafficking in Vietnam. For years, anti-slavery groups have warned the UK about a rise in trafficking, but it took a tragedy for people to start paying attention. Nguyen discusses who is vulnerable to trafficking, how trafficking functions, and Vietnam’s response.

Freelance journalist Thoi Nguyen is a member of Chatham House and a member of Amnesty International UK. In addition to human trafficking, he writes about the economy, finance, and foreign affairs. He’s a specialist in South East Asian geopolitics.

“History Repeats Itself: Some New Faces Behind Sex Trafficking Are More Familiar Than You Think”

By: Mary Graw Leary

This essay highlights how human trafficking isn’t only a criminal enterprise, it’s also an economic one. Leary looks specifically at how businesses that benefit (directly or indirectly) from slavery have always fought against efforts to end it. The essay focuses on government efforts to disrupt online sex trafficking and how companies are working to prevent that from happening. Human trafficking is a multi-billion dollar industry, so it makes sense that even legitimate businesses benefit. Knowing what these businesses are is essential to ending trafficking.

Mary Graw Leary is a former federal prosecutor and currently a professor of law at The Catholic University of America. The Chair of the United States Sentencing Commission’s Victim Advocacy Group, she’s an expert in exploitation, missing persons, human trafficking, and technology.

You may also like

15 Quotes Exposing Injustice in Society

14 Trusted Charities Helping Civilians in Palestine

The Great Migration: History, Causes and Facts

Social Change 101: Meaning, Examples, Learning Opportunities

Rosa Parks: Biography, Quotes, Impact

Top 20 Issues Women Are Facing Today

Top 20 Issues Children Are Facing Today

15 Root Causes of Climate Change

15 Facts about Rosa Parks

Abolitionist Movement: History, Main Ideas, and Activism Today

The Biggest 15 NGOs in the UK

15 Biggest NGOs in Canada

About the author, emmaline soken-huberty.

Emmaline Soken-Huberty is a freelance writer based in Portland, Oregon. She started to become interested in human rights while attending college, eventually getting a concentration in human rights and humanitarianism. LGBTQ+ rights, women’s rights, and climate change are of special concern to her. In her spare time, she can be found reading or enjoying Oregon’s natural beauty with her husband and dog.

• Environment
• Information Science
• Social Issues
• Argumentative
• Cause and Effect
• Classification
• Compare and Contrast
• Descriptive
• Exemplification
• Informative
• Controversial
• Exploratory
• What Is an Essay
• Length of an Essay
• Generate Ideas
• Types of Essays
• Structuring an Essay
• Outline For Essay
• Essay Introduction
• Thesis Statement
• Body of an Essay
• Writing a Conclusion
• Essay Writing Tips
• Drafting an Essay
• Revision Process
• Fix a Broken Essay
• Format of an Essay
• Essay Examples
• Essay Checklist
• Essay Writing Service
• Pay for Research Paper
• Write My Research Paper
• Write My Essay
• Custom Essay Writing Service
• Admission Essay Writing Service
• Pay for Essay
• Academic Ghostwriting
• Write My Book Report
• Case Study Writing Service
• Dissertation Writing Service
• Coursework Writing Service
• Lab Report Writing Service
• Do My Assignment
• Buy College Papers
• Capstone Project Writing Service
• Buy Research Paper
• Custom Essays for Sale

Can’t find a perfect paper?

• Free Essay Samples
• Human Trafficking

Essays on Human Trafficking

Human freedom is one of the main values of a modern civilized society, which should be reflected in your human trafficking essay. Ensuring the inviolability of individual freedom is one of the main functions of any state. Human trafficking has become the fastest growing and most lucrative activity for transnational organized crime. An increase in human trafficking is evident in many countries of the world. Research for essays on human trafficking shows that situation is critical in countries such as Nepal, Sudan, United Arab Emirates, India, Gabon, Haiti, Myanmar. Many samples of human trafficking essays feature statistics, which show that around 4 million people are sold, bought, detained, and transported every year around the world against their will. Experts estimate that the annual global profit from human trade is over 10 billion USD. Learn from our human trafficking essay samples to make your essay special.

Introduction According to Cheryl (845), more than 50,000 children and women are trafficked into the United States every year to be sex slaves and Texas which is explained as the Lone Star State is deemed as the profound hub of sexual trafficking. Here, the undertaking of the commercial sex trafficking business...

Words: 1763

Introduction Although America abolished slave trade more than a century ago, it is sad to note that human trafficking remains one of the most common forms of human rights violation in the modern society. According to United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) human trafficking is the act of a...

Human Trafficking and the Need for Local Action Although America abolished slave trade more than a century ago, it is sad to note that human trafficking remains one of the most common forms of human rights violation in the modern society. According to United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)...

Words: 1049

According to Cheryl (845), more than 50,000 children and women are trafficked into the United States every year to be sex slaves and Texas which is explained as the Lone Star State is deemed as the profound hub of human trafficking. Here, the undertaking of the commercial human trafficking business...

Words: 1764

The Challenges Faced by Psychologists, Counselors, and Social Workers The expansion in the scale of human trafficking presents challenges to government and law enforcement agencies in curbing this practice. However, psychologists, counselors, and social workers face the challenges of rehabilitating the survivors of this heinous activity. The challenges faced by the...

Introduction Human trafficking has become a great concern for governments as well as law enforcers as they try to eradicate the practice. However, there exist a bigger challenge to the psychologists and social workers who are involved with rehabilitating the affected. One of the biggest issues is the situation of the...

Found a perfect essay sample but want a unique one?

Request writing help from expert writer in you feed!

It is defined as a way of obtaining sexual services or forced labor from an individual using coercion, fraud, or force without the willingness of that person. Ø History of human trafficking Human trafficking is third ranked after sale of arms and drugs. It is the most unappealing crimes and human beings...

Words: 1534

Sex Trafficking: A Form of Modern Slavery Sex trafficking is basically a form of modern slavery through which victims are adducted and illegally recruited for sexual exploitation purposes. Physical force or psychological manipulation like the use of drugs are relied upon to threaten victims into the act. Also, traffickers may use...

Human trafficking has been a global issue affecting women, men, and children. The matter has become prevalent despite the dyer efforts of most countries globally to curb the menace. Many individuals refer to the act as the modern day slavery, where there is prohibited trade of human beings for forced...

Words: 1518

Human trafficking refers to where a person or a group of people controls the others by forcing them into labor, sexual harassment or organ trafficking (Kempadoo et al., 100).   The practice has been on the increase, despite the laws put against owning or forcing other people into activities that they...

Words: 2448

Human Trafficking: A Modern-Day Form of Slavery Human trafficking is a form of slavery in the present day where the traffickers use fraud, coercion or force to commercial sexual exploitation or for labor. The victims are usually traumatized to the extent that they are unable to ask for help It is...

Words: 1383

Trafficking of human organs is on the rise as the demand for the organs transplant in wealthy nations is recently increasing fast. Goh, Tan and Yeo (2016) adds that the demand for organs is higher than its supply and it cannot be meet by the traditional donation means. For instance,...

Words: 3470

Related topic to Human Trafficking

You might also like.

Human Trafficking Essay Topics, Outline, & Example [2024]

“People for sale” is a phrase that describes exactly what human trafficking is. It also makes for an attention-grabbing title for an essay on this subject. You are going to talk about a severe problem, so it’s crucial to hook the reader from the get-go.

Our specialists will write a custom essay specially for you!

A human trafficking essay is an assignment where you discuss causes, effects, or potential solutions to the problem of modern slavery. A well-written essay can help raise awareness of this complicated issue.

In this article by our custom writing experts, you will find:

• 220 human trafficking essay topics;
• a writing guide;
• an essay sample;
• helpful info on human trafficking.
• 🔝 Top 10 Topics
• ❓ What Is Human Trafficking?
• ✍️ Topics for Any Essay Type
• 📝 Essay Outline
• 📑 Essay Sample
• ✏️ Frequent Questions

🔝 Top 10 Human Trafficking Essay Topics

• History of slavery.
• Slavery in literature.
• Human trafficking awareness.
• Modern slavery: legislation.
• Cultural background of traffickers.
• Globalization and human trafficking.
• Human trafficking vs. human rights.
• Modern slavery and kidnapping.
• Human trafficking rates by country.
• Human trafficking effects on the economy.

❓ What Is Human Trafficking?

The United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime determines human trafficking as the recruitment, transportation, harboring, or receipt of persons for the purpose of sexual slavery, exploitation, forced labor, organs removal, etc.

According to the recent reports of the Council of Europe,  human trafficking rates have reached epidemic proportions . Millions of people are being trafficked for different reasons, primarily for sexual exploitation and forced labor. Women and children are the primary victims of human trafficking , which makes the problem especially acute.

One of the most worrying factors that directly impact the increase in trafficking rates is the growing number of refugees and migrants. It’s the largest seen since WWII, and it has intensified during the last years.

Just in 1 hour! We will write you a plagiarism-free paper in hardly more than 1 hour

Types of Human Trafficking

Before you start writing your essay, it’s essential to review the forms of human trafficking. Knowing them will help you see the bigger picture. Here are the most common ones.

Additionally, victims of human smuggling and child trafficking are often involved in various kinds of labor. While sexual exploitation is one of the major reasons for trafficking, it’s not the only one. These are also serious problems that you can focus on in your essay.

According to Polaris Project, there are 25 types of modern slavery . Among them are:

• Manufacturing in sweatshops;
• Agricultural work;
• Food and cleaning services;
• Beauty and massage salons.

Note that each of these practices has unique traits. It means there are specific methods of recruitment and control associated with them. Make sure to take all essential features of human trafficking into account when writing your essay.

The History of Human Trafficking

If we go back in time, we can see that human trafficking has a long history. Here are some of its milestones:

Receive a plagiarism-free paper tailored to your instructions. Cut 20% off your first order!

As you now know, human trafficking is inextricably linked to other crimes against human rights. And the eradication of this phenomenon depends on both governments and ordinary citizens.

What Is Being Done to Stop Human Trafficking

In recent decades, a lot has been done to curb slavery. The United Nations General Assembly has established the World Day against Trafficking in Persons on July 30 . It was done to raise awareness of the situation and promote and protect victims’ rights.

One of the essential frameworks used to combat human trafficking is the 3P: prosecution, protection, and prevention .

Sometimes “ partnership ” is added as the fourth P. Since human trafficking became a pandemic, it requires a combined effort of people working together to overcome this problem. You can learn more about the 3P paradigm from this article by the US Department of State .

You may ask, “What can I do?” Here are some ways in which anyone can help fight human trafficking:

Get an originally-written paper according to your instructions!

• In each country, there is a hotline where you can report on a known case of human trafficking or an attempt at recruiting.
• Be attentive to various kinds of controversial proposals and promises of a better life.
• Try to avoid bad company.

These recommendations may seem simple, but they can help you stay away from danger, spread awareness, and even save lives.

Before you start writing a human trafficking essay, you need to find a compelling topic. Check out the following list of topics and prompts and choose a subject that interests you.

✍️ Human Trafficking Topics for Any Essay Type

Human Trafficking Argumentative Essay Topics

• We should let survivors inform the public about the dangers of trafficking .
• State laws should protect the rights of trafficking survivors.
• Victim behavior is not the reason for the actions of criminals.
• Present medical facts about the ability of humans to survive a trauma .
• What psychological techniques do criminals use to lure victims?
• School is a safe haven for children from disadvantaged families.
• High social status is not a guarantee of protection against traffickers.
• Deception as a tool for controlling victims of modern slavery .
• Family can provide significant support to a victim of human trafficking .
• Physical violence and threats are the chief tools for controlling traffickers.
• Health workers should follow safety rules when rescuing trafficking victims .
• Countries providing financial advantages for anonymous economic activities should be held accountable.
• Psychologists should comply with ethical standards when assisting victims of trafficking.
• Countries with high trafficking rates should develop maps showing hotspots.
• Victims of modern slavery are not to blame: justification from the criminal perspective.
• Whom should we hold responsible for what happens to the victims in captivity?
• Will economic support for vulnerable groups help reduce the level of human trafficking?
• Prolonged captivity reduces the chances of adaptation after release.
• Exercise and physical activity help victims of trafficking to overcome trauma .
• Medication alone is ineffective in combating PTSD among trafficking victims.

Human Trafficking Argumentative Essay Prompts & Tips

• Who is responsible for human trafficking—the government, police , or society? There is no sufficient progress in stopping human trafficking . This is mainly due to the absence of an unequivocal opinion about who is responsible for the situation. Give your own ideas in this essay.
• The need to inform the public about human trafficking . Demonstrate the necessity to convey this information to the masses. You can also suggest ways of doing it.
• Immediate assistance for the victims of modern slavery . Show why it is important to provide psychological aid to rescued victims. What is the role of nurses and community organizations in it?
• Psychological help to victims of human trafficking: group therapy . Group therapy is based on awareness and acceptance of trauma. These actions are the basis of PTSD treatment . Decide whether it’s the optimal solution for victims’ psychological rehabilitation.
• Countries with widespread human trafficking should develop appropriate laws. Legislation changes are a crucial element of an integrated approach. In this essay, provide a list of existing laws and possible new regulations.
• The devastating impact of modern slavery. Describe the disastrous consequences that victims of human trafficking face. Find stories describing their lives in various media. How did they become victims? What happened to them after release from captivity?
• Tightening police measures as a way to stop human trafficking . Women and children are especially vulnerable targets for traffickers. Demonstrate the need to enable the police to protect them better.
• The high rate of trafficking indicates a high crime rate in a country. Determine which countries have the highest human trafficking rates. What are the related crimes observed there? Is there a correlation?
• The use of technology to catch criminals and traffickers. In this essay, discuss technologies that can help officials stop traffickers. For instance, satellite imagery allows identifying places of victims’ detention.
• International financial law is one of the best ways to stop human trafficking . Would the right to disclose anonymous bank accounts help reduce such crimes? What new laws and agreements are required to allow this?

For an argumentative essay, you need to conduct extensive research and present evidence to support your claim (check out our argumentative essay guide to learn more.) Here are the main steps:

Human Trafficking Persuasive Essay Topics

• An anti-trafficking tax will help decrease the modern slavery rates.
• Is preventing new cases of slavery more critical than saving victims?
• Modern slavery is a serious problem that the CIA should address.
• Ignoring human trafficking is the same as neglecting Nazism .
• Forced labor is an economic problem as it is caused by poverty.
• Border control no longer solves the problem of forced labor.
• Should producers of weapons pay an anti-trafficking tax?
• Imprisonment for paying for escort services will stop human trafficking .
• Will stricter gun control laws help stop human trafficking?
• Victims of human trafficking should receive lifetime financial compensation.
• Human trafficking is a national problem that requires coordination of efforts.
• Treatment of human trafficking victims is a responsibility of society as well as psychologists.
• Two-year state-funded hospital treatment will help survivors to cope with the trauma .
• Are social networks a determining factor in the spread of human trafficking?
• Assess gender disparity in using the labor of human trafficking victims.
• Did the political polarization of society lead to an increase in people smuggling?
• Immigration laws are an effective means of combating modern slavery.
• Human traffickers’ family members capable of domestic violence should share responsibility with criminals.
• Civil and human rights protection laws do not sufficiently address human trafficking.
• People smuggling is not a crime from the criminals’ perspective: is this statement true?

Tips & Persuasive Essay Prompts Related to Human Trafficking

• The President must take personal responsibility. The problem of human trafficking is more acute than ever. It requires the immediate intervention of the President and Vice President. For example, they can declare the upcoming year the year of the fight against human trafficking.
• Criminals guilty of human trafficking should be kept in special prisons . The government should create special jails for rapists and human traffickers with a stricter regime. Moreover, we should prevent these criminals from becoming part of society again. Is this proposal fair?
• Trafficking should be punished with life imprisonment . Today, life imprisonment is mainly reserved for murder. Should human trafficking be penalized to the fullest extent?
• Can self-defense lessons help to avoid the risk of being captured by traffickers? Do you agree that schools should introduce a martial arts training system?
• State laws should permit surveillance in regions with high trafficking rates. Debate whether security is more important than the right to anonymity. Should the government allow the police to access people’s data ?
• Public organizations that help the survivors should take official responsibility. If non-governmental associations take it, they can receive financial support. It will help them cooperate more effectively with the police. Do you agree?
• The existence of human trafficking in a country: deontology, utilitarianism and egoism. The United States is officially a democracy . However, the human trafficking rates show that America is close to a feudal society. Criminal ties among the upper class also enforce it.
• Fines as a way to motivate social workers and patrol officers to fight human trafficking. Many activists and police officers work in areas with high human trafficking rates. Do you agree that governments should fine them? Would a system of moderate fines motivate them to be more responsible?
• People who cannot pay rent are easy targets for traffickers. The government should prevent homelessness to combat human trafficking. For instance, it can compensate for the rent of vulnerable demographics.
• Homelessness as the main reason for being captured by traffickers. Homelessness deprives a person of protection. States with the highest human trafficking rates should start building shelters for the homeless. The state should provide them with food, clothing, jobs, and education. This way, traffickers won’t capture them into slavery.

A persuasive essay aims to convince the reader to share your opinion. You can do it by citing facts and statistics (check out our persuasive essay guide for more info.) Here’s how to write it:

Human Trafficking Informative Essay Topics

• How do international organizations fight modern slavery?
• Human trafficking in developed African countries.
• Outline the demography of human trafficking in the US .
• How does society stigmatize trafficking survivors ?
• Fair trade as a way to combat modern slavery.
• Sex trafficking from a feminist perspective.
• The role of photography in the fight against forced labor.
• Fighting human trafficking on the dark web .
• Media coverage of human trafficking : ethical aspects.
• Review how anyone can help combat human trafficking .
• Association of human trafficking with social insecurity.
• How can medical institutions provide safety to victims of trafficking?
• Review the political and economic effects of human trafficking in the US.
• What lessons can the US learn from the trafficking situation in Eastern Europe?
• Forced labor and higher education in the US: programs for survivors.
• What US laws protect victims of slavery and define criminal activities?
• Review government statistics on forced labor in the US over the last five years.
• Which American states have the highest human trafficking rates?
• Modern slavery in the Arab world : from ancient times to modern days.
• Using technology to combat forced labor: the latest solutions.

Tips & Informative Writing Prompts for Human Trafficking Essays

• Measures that governments can take to reduce human trafficking . Review legal and informative measures to combat modern slavery. You can base this essay on reports from official government agencies.
• Human trafficking: types, symptoms , and effects. For this essay, present the kinds of trafficking according to the official categorization. It includes divisions according to age, gender, and type of forced labor. You can also describe the symptoms commonly found in victims.
• The history of human trafficking : from ancient times to the 21 st century. Start by describing ancient cultures that used forced labor. Alternatively, you may focus on the history of slavery in the US . Include the latest statistics on reported cases of human trafficking.
• Human trafficking and fundamental humanistic values. Outline humanistic values that are violated by forced labor. Back it up with arguments drawn from the works of famous humanists.
• What are the consequences of human trafficking for victims? Describe the trauma that people develop while in captivity. Use reports from national and global organizations. What physiological symptoms are associated with adaptation after release?
• How does the US deal with the problem of reporting on forced labor? Present ways of communicating the risks of human trafficking. Base this essay on government anti-trafficking reports. Include a list of trafficker indicators and other red flags.
• Environments that put a person in danger of becoming a victim of human trafficking. These include unemployment , homelessness, and the absence of immigration status. You can base this essay on data from governmental reports.
• Informing the population as means of reducing human trafficking rates. Does informing people actually reduce the number of potential victims? Review the best informing strategies used by community organizations.
• Why are migrants the most vulnerable population group in terms of human trafficking? In this essay, provide information on migrants’ life circumstances. Mention the aspects that make them the most vulnerable demographic. Examples include unemployment and insecurity before the law. You can also present the most common schemes by which traffickers capture migrants.
• New approaches to mitigating the effects of modern slavery in psychotherapy . Describe what methods therapists use to help slavery victims. You can present a list of optimal practices for restoring the integrity of survivors’ personalities. For this essay on human trafficking, use scientific articles and reports from practicing therapists.

An informative essay should educate the reader on something they didn’t know before. Have a look at this outline:

Topics for an Expository Essay on Human Trafficking

• Assess social adaptation methods for victims of sexual slavery.
• Social adaptation of men who worked for traffickers in captivity.
• Police memo: evidence sufficient to detain a trafficker.
• Describe how to identify a trafficker based on 7 criteria.
• Power of the image: photo reports on human trafficking.
• Anonymous story of a sexual slavery survivor.
• Present a psychological and demographic portrait of a trafficker.
• Describe the conditions of human traffickers’ detention.
• Dealing with trauma in children who have been in labor slavery.
• Human trafficking in the Southern and Northern states.
• How to restore citizenship and documents after release from captivity.
• How can human trafficking survivors get free medical care ?
• Who is more effective in stopping human trafficking : government agencies or community organizations?
• Being in captivity during the war , in forced labor, or sexual slavery: psychological consequences.
• Gender differences in human trafficking victims’ labor.
• Modern slavery’s connection to the criminal underworld in the Northern states.
• Enumerate the reasons why homeless people can end up in captivity.
• How many years does adaptation take for human trafficking survivors?
• Explore the modern meaning of the word “slavery.”
• Discuss ways of psychological support for the families of slavery victims.

Modern Day Slavery Writing Prompts & Tips for Expository Essays

• Human trafficking and modern slavery: real stories told by the media. Review several articles about falling into slavery. You can focus on press coverage from the 2010s. The stories of survivors will speak for themselves.
• Non-governmental organizations of the USA assisting victims: the power of community . Present five influential organizations from California, Texas, Florida, Ohio, and Nevada. Assess the personal contributions of staff. What is the role of local communities?
• How to help a friend if they’ve become a victim of human trafficking . In this essay, list tactics and strategies for assisting forced labor victims. Pay particular attention to compliance with safety regulations.
• What is it like to be a forced labor victim? A more creative task is to describe the situation from the inside. Can victims try to escape and free themselves from slavery? What is the role of psychological pressure from traffickers? How can an ordinary person cope with such a monstrous challenge?
• Prostitution, forced labor, and organ trafficking : a comparison. In addition, describe what forms of modern slavery prevail in different countries.
• Therapy methods in human trafficking survivors. Review what therapy practices are the most suitable for working with the survivors.
• An overview of common human trafficking schemes. These often involve vulnerable demographics, including illegal immigrants and adolescents from underprivileged communities.
• In what conditions do human trafficking victims live? In this paper, explain how life in captivity affects one’s mental health . Determine the connections between trauma and the body’s response to it.
• Ways of integration of human trafficking survivors. Review the best strategies for their adaptation to everyday life. Give examples of social adaptation that include education and employment.
• Human trafficking in the Southern and Border States. Study the situation in Texas, California, Florida, Georgia, and Arizona. Then, describe how to solve the problem. Don’t forget to emphasize the role of social work with illegal migrants.

An expository essay includes a thesis statement, evidence, and a logical conclusion. You can also use elements of creative writing in your paper (feel free to read our expository essay guide for more info.) Here are the main steps:

Human Trafficking Research Paper Topics

• Survival in an unfamiliar city: is an escape from slavery possible?
• What prevents citizens from recognizing victims of human trafficking?
• Are monthly payments for human trafficking survivors justified?
• Dietary adaptation for malnourished forced labor survivors.
• How do the police investigate slavery markets?
• Economic levers to combat human trafficking: practical approaches.
• Describe global criminal connections that lead to modern slavery.
• Being in captivity leads to psychological trauma inherited by victims’ children.
• The use of figureheads on social media is a successful tactic against traffickers.
• Five app projects that will help avoid becoming a human trafficking victim.
• We should ban goods produced by forced labor worldwide.
• Human trafficking transportation problems as an opportunity to catch criminals.
• Research the use of symbolic language in informing victims of human trafficking.
• Funding for the installation of video surveillance systems to catch traffickers.
• People from what socio-economic background are the most vulnerable to child labour and exploitation?
• How can we combat human trafficking during a pandemic ?
• Ethics of business and economic relations as a way to combat slavery.
• Informing vulnerable groups about human trafficking and attracting them to cooperation.
• Coordinated interaction of police departments is the key to success in combating people smuggling.

Human Trafficking Research Paper Prompts & Tips

• Deficiencies in US law determine success or failure in the fight against human trafficking. US legislation on human trafficking includes several rules. International acts and agreements also guide it. Nonetheless, the US laws, especially in the leading states, require urgent revision.
• Human trafficking as modern slavery: history repeating itself. Draw analogies between the trends and schemes from the past and the present. What historical practices can be effective in combating slavery? In particular, this concerns the anti-slavery movement and public awareness.
• Domestic human trafficking in the US shows increasing tendencies. Here, analyze the growth of domestic human trafficking cases. Demonstrate the need to create new approaches to catch criminals.
• Technology companies can stop human trafficking. The luring of victims often occurs on social media . Should social networking companies be penalized for failing to act against criminals?
• Can social media campaigns help protect potential victims? It’s necessary to create a program that will inform users about the dangers of trafficking . This method of targeted communication can be very effective.
• City officials should be ready to engage in the fight against modern slavery. Provide examples of American cities that are actively fighting human trafficking. What approaches and practices can be adopted throughout the US?
• Medical institutions are the main asset in combating human trafficking. More than three-quarters of victims receive medical care while in captivity. Health workers have the legal right to place a patient in a hospital and protect them from contact with criminals. This approach has been successful in many states.
• The police have insufficient funding to combat human trafficking. The police are conducting successful investigations, and there are many cases of solved human trafficking crimes. The state can grant more money to the police to uncover more trafficking schemes. It will allow using more advanced technologies in search of criminals.

• Hotlines should be more accessible to victims of trafficking. Hotlines are highly effective in combating human trafficking. They are easy to find on the Internet, but captive victims rarely have access to the network. How can we improve this situation?
• Families of trafficking victims and their participation in the search. Demonstrate the need to establish a format for families’ closer cooperation with the police. Would it help to conduct police investigations more effectively? Should we allow families to conduct their own investigations?
• The US is responsible for the success of international cooperation against human trafficking.

To write a research paper, you study the available information, analyze it, and make conclusions. Here’s a human trafficking research paper outline:

Causes of Human Trafficking Essay Topics

• Discuss psychological factors of human trafficking.
• What personal reasons make people become traffickers?
• Greed as a major reason for human trafficking.
• What are the major causes of sex trafficking ?
• Substantial profit as one of the human trafficking root causes.
• Explore the reasons for forced marriages.
• How does social media promote people trafficking?
• Commercialized sex and its contribution to human trafficking.
• Does authoritarianism promote human trafficking?
• Compare the cases of human trafficking in the United States and Thailand.
• Explore the court cases of traffickers. Does the judicial system cope with its duties?
• Why are weak anti-trafficking policies the primary cause of people’s exploitation ?
• Discuss the role of government in human trafficking.
• Investigate the reforms on human trafficking. How effective are these measures?
• Lack of relevant laws leads to more trafficking cases. Do you agree?
• Should legal punishments apply to victims as well as traffickers?
• Why is ethnicity one of the main factors of people trafficking ?
• Explore the connection between drug addiction and slavery.
• Violent force and threats as major leverages of traffickers.
• Naivety leads to becoming a victim of traffickers. Provide your arguments.

Causes of Human Trafficking Essay Prompts & Tips

• What are the leading causes of human trafficking ? Your essay may start with the definition of people trafficking. Think about social and economic factors. Dig into history to find the reasons. Most importantly, look at this issue from various angles.
• Explore poverty as one of the reasons for human trafficking. How does poverty influence people? Can it force them to behave illegally? What are people ready to do for money?
• Migration : is it a cause or a consequence of human trafficking? Some people are so eager to immigrate to developed countries that they can do anything. They are even ready to sell their children to get money or sell themselves into slavery. At the same time, others become traffickers to move to another country.
• Discuss the connection between human trafficking and education. Think about the following: If a person lacks education, they lack knowledge about their rights. They can be deluded more easily. Following this logic, these individuals can become desired prey for traffickers.
• What is the role of war in human trafficking? Do armed conflicts provoke or prevent the spread of slavery? How do they facilitate the development of this problem? Is smuggling flourishing in countries that are at war? These are excellent questions to start with.
• What are the effects of cheap labor demand ? Supply and demand are two pillars of economics. If there were no need for a cheap working force, traffickers wouldn’t exploit people so easily. They force their victims to work almost for free while selling the goods at a high price.
• Investigate institutional racism as a root cause of people trafficking. Who is the most vulnerable social class ? Naturally, these are marginalized groups. They lack protection at a constitutional level. That’s why they can become victims of traffickers.
• Cultural and social causes of human trafficking. For some nations, selling children, slavery, smuggling, and bonded labor are commonplace. In some countries, such as Uzbekistan, people are forced to work in the cotton fields by the authorities. If you do research, you will see many similar examples worldwide.
• How do natural disasters facilitate human trafficking? The consequences of some natural disasters force people to migrate and find alternative ways to earn money. Some of them have no other option but to let themselves be exploited. 
• How does the absence of safe migration conditions assist people trafficking?  Many people from developing countries want to move to the United States to achieve their American Dream . Traffickers delude fortune seekers, promising well-paid jobs and help in crossing the border.

Discussing human trafficking in a cause-and-effect essay is an excellent way to investigate this issue in detail. You can learn how to write it from our article on cause-and-effect essays . Here’s a recap:

Solutions to Human Trafficking Essay Topics

• How can employers help stop human trafficking?
• Producing films about slavery : is it a problem solution?
• How can we stop human trafficking by learning the indicators?
• How can people protect themselves from traffickers when going abroad?
• Why should employers stop using cheap labor?
• Compare and contrast solutions to labor and sex trafficking .
• The role of parents and caregivers in preventing forced labor.
• How can civic awareness stop human trafficking ?
• What is more important: to persecute traffickers or to protect victims?
• In what ways can attorneys help stop people smuggling ? 
• Can creating a reliable online platform for job searching help reduce slavery?
• Educational curriculum : should students be taught how to indicate and prevent human trafficking?
• Investigate the list of goods produced by child exploitation as a form of human trafficking. How does this information influence people’s choices?
• Forewarned is forearmed: discuss the effectiveness of anti-trafficking non-profit websites .
• How can stricter validity checks on job-searching websites solve the issue of modern slavery?
• Can the implementation of severe punishments for human trafficking help to curb the problem?
• Legalization of prostitution as a way of preventing sex trafficking.
• How can timely identification of human trafficking indicators save the lives of the victims? 
• Fighting against poverty and unemployment as a means of preventing people smuggling.
• Watching documentaries about modern slavery as a problem solution.

Solutions to Human Trafficking Essay Prompts & Tips

• What are the primary solutions to human trafficking? Think about the following: How can this problem be solved on personal and national levels? It’s crucial to mention self-awareness , education, volunteering , and the role of charity organizations. You may also address the necessity to change the law.
• Human trafficking: an international approach. The issue of modern slavery is a global problem. That’s why it should be dealt with at the international level. The authorities all over the world should unite to fight against people trafficking.
• Compare and contrast the effectiveness of volunteering and adopting new policies. On the one hand, volunteers attract public attention to the issue of human trafficking. On the other hand, we should protect marginalized groups at the constitutional level. Otherwise, human trafficking will remain flourishing in the future.
• Coverage of human trafficking cases in social media . Is it a good idea for the victims to share their stories on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook ? How can it help prevent this issue? Could it lead to the stigmatization of these people by others? You can start by brainstorming these ideas.
• Discuss whether fundraising is an effective solution to human trafficking. Ponder on how holding a fundraiser helps bring awareness to the problem of modern slavery. What are some other benefits of fundraising, such as financial assistance?
• Donations help prevent human trafficking. Do you agree? Every person can donate some money, clothes, or even shelter for the victims of human trafficking. Business owners may ensure employment opportunities, giving these people a chance for a better future. Focus on the importance of psychological and legal assistance .
• How does the media help prevent human trafficking? The media attracts people’s attention to the problem. They become more aware and careful. The cases of victims are widely discussed, leading to more fundraising and volunteering .
• Explore the anti-trafficking legislation in the United States. Discuss its strengths and drawbacks. What could be changed or done better? Is it effective? How are the rights of marginalized groups protected? These ideas are only the tip of the iceberg.
• Education opportunities for disadvantaged groups as a way of preventing human trafficking. Should the government provide marginalized people with free education? How can it affect human trafficking? Discuss it in your essay.  
• Why is a boycott an effective way of preventing human trafficking? If others start rejecting the goods produced by the victims of human trafficking, traffickers won’t get such huge profits. Everyone can make their contribution to the fight against this issue.

A problem-solution essay is particularly suitable for discussing modern slavery. Explore the facts and suggest how to stop this inhumane practice. Here’s how to write about problems and their solutions:

If you haven’t found a suitable topic, feel free to use our topic generator .

📝 Human Trafficking Essay Outline

Before you start writing, let’s have a look at some aspects to consider in your college essay on human trafficking. Here’s the basic template:

Human Trafficking Essay Introduction: How to Write

The most important part of an essay introduction is a hook. A perfect attention grabber for a human trafficking paper would demonstrate the seriousness of the problem right away. It, in turn, would make your audience eager to read on.

Have a look at some of the ideas for your essay’s hook:

• Cite statistical data related to the current situation with human trafficking.
• Start with a stirring quote to appeal to readers’ emotions.
• Pose a question related to your essay’s topic. Make the reader want to learn the answer.

Besides the hook, it’s logical to start your essay with some background information. This way, even an unprepared reader will understand your essay’s thesis. Think of what your audience may not know about your topic. It will help you determine what to include in this part of the introduction.

Here are some strategies:

• Tell about the countries and regions with the highest trafficking rates—for example, Thailand, the Philippines, India, South Africa, and Eastern Europe.
• Mention reasons behind this problem: unemployment, social discrimination, political instability, armed conflicts, etc.
• Give a solid definition of human trafficking or its specific type. It’s better to formulate your own one rather than take it from a dictionary.

It’s important to notice that your hook and background information should be relevant to your topic. Make sure these elements help to further the understanding of your essay’s main point.

Human Trafficking Essay Thesis

A thesis statement is your essay’s main point formulated in one sentence. It outlines the paper’s direction and provides an answer to the problem stated in the title. You place it at the end of the introduction.

A good thesis statement for a human trafficking essay usually presents the solution to a problem. However, the thesis’ contents depend on your essay’s type. For example, in an informative essay, you don’t need to prove or suggest anything. Instead, you say what you’re going to explain and how you’ll do it.

Once you’ve written the thesis statement, how do you determine whether it’s strong? Well, one way is to answer the questions from the following checklist.

If your answer to all three questions is “yes,” you can be sure of your thesis’s effectiveness.

Finally, don’t forget that the rest of your essay should support your thesis. If necessary, you can rework your statement to better suit the body paragraphs, or vice versa.

Human Trafficking Essay: Main Body

How do you make your essay on human trafficking credible and persuasive? Naturally, you want to add evidence. Here’s how to incorporate it into your paper:

• It’s better to start collecting your evidence before you start writing. Once you’ve found all the necessary information, it will be easier for you to structure the paragraphs. The point is to focus each section on a single aspect.
• Start each paragraph with a topic sentence. It should present the main idea that you will then support with evidence. Ideally, your audience should be able to follow your logic by reading the topic sentences alone.
• Finally, add your evidence. It can be statistics, facts from scholarly articles, quotes, or even anecdotes. Follow it with your explanation of this information. Say how it relates to the topic and supports your thesis.

Human Trafficking Essay Conclusion: Dos & Don’ts

A strong conclusion is a crucial part of any writing. In this final part, you synthesize your essay in a few sentences while adding a twist to it. If a conclusion is done right, it can leave a lasting impression on your readers.

This dos and don’ts list will help you write a perfect conclusion for a human trafficking essay. Check it out:

Don’t forget to introduce statistics in your essay on human trafficking. It’s available on numerous websites of governmental and non-governmental organizations dealing with the problem. You can find more ideas for your paper in our article about writing a child labor essay.

📑 Human Trafficking Essay Examples

We’ve prepared an outstanding sample essay on human trafficking that you can use as inspiration. You’re welcome to download the PDF file below:

Human trafficking is a global problem. It deprives millions worldwide of their freedom and dignity. Traffickers use various tactics to lure children, men, and women into the trap. For that reason, precaution measures should be taken. It is crucial to educate as many people as possible on the issue to ensure everyone’s safety.

Share your thoughts about human trafficking with us! Why do you think slavery is still in demand? If you were a politician, what would you do to prevent it? Tell us your suggestion in comments below!

Learn more on this topic:

• Canadian Identity Essay: Essay Topics and Writing Guide
• Nationalism Essay: An Ultimate Guide and Topics
• Essay on Corruption: How to Stop It. Quick Guide
• Murder Essay: Top 3 Killing Ideas to Complete your Essay
• World Peace Essay in Simple English: How-to + 200 Topic Ideas
• Gun Control Essay: How-to Guide + 150 Argumentative Topics [2024]
• Student Exchange Program (Flex) Essay Topics [2024]

✏️  Human Trafficking Essay FAQ

Human trafficking is a topical issue in society because it’s an inhumane practice that affects millions of people worldwide. Writing on that topic helps understand why it is happening and what can be done about it.

Human trafficking is a very complex phenomenon driven by various economic, social, cultural, and other causes. Factors of a high human trafficking risk are poverty, social instability, exclusion, and lack of education and awareness (e.g., in South Africa.)

Pretty much every fact connected with human trafficking is horrifying. Nearly everything about this phenomenon can be considered a danger. As human trafficking is a form of slavery, it would be naive to presume there are any positive effects whatsoever.

Human trafficking is a serious problem, and you should be able to express your opinion on it. For example, it can be done in the form of an argumentative essay. It is vital to avoid using too many emotionally charged words. Remember to stay objective and provide facts and examples.

🔗 References

• Tips for Organizing an Argumentative Essay: Judith L. Beumer Writing Center
• Human Trafficking Essay: Bartleby
• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment: NHS
• Embrace AI, Technology to Beat Human Traffickers: Reuters
• Essay Writing: Purdue University
• What Is Human Trafficking: Anti-Slavery International
• Human Trafficking: Encyclopedia Britannica
• End Human Trafficking: United Way
• Human Trafficking Facts: CRS
• OSCE Resource Police Training Guide: Trafficking in Human Beings: OSCE
• Study on the Economic, Social and Human Costs of Trafficking in Human Beings Within the EU: Europa.eu
• Writing a Research Paper: University of Wisconsin-Madison
• Human Trafficking: FBI
• Human Trafficking: Causes and Implications: Research Gate
• Writing a Persuasive Essay: Hamilton College
• Parts of an Informative Essay: Pen and the Pad
• Expository Essay Outline: Columbus City Schools
• Introductions & Conclusions: University of Arizona
• Writing the Introduction: Monash University
• How to Write a Thesis Statement: Indiana University Bloomington
• Writing a Thesis Statement: Piedmont University
• 4 Ways Anyone Can Fight Human Trafficking: The Muse
• What Fuels Human Trafficking?: UNISEF USA
• What Is Human Trafficking?: Homeland Security
• Psychological Tactics Used by Human Traffickers: Psychology Today
• Psychological Coercion in Human Trafficking: An Application of Biderman’s Framework: NIH
• Warning Signs of Human Trafficking: State of Nevada
• Human Trafficking: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement
• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to LinkedIn
• Share to email

Is globalization a beneficial process? What are the pros and cons of a religious upbringing? Do the drawbacks of immigration outweigh the benefits? These questions can become a foundation for your advantages and disadvantages essay. And we have even more ideas to offer! There is nothing complicated about writing this...

This time you have to write a World War II essay, paper, or thesis. It means that you have a perfect chance to refresh those memories about the war that some of us might forget. So many words can be said about the war in that it seems you will...

Would you always go for Bill Nye the Science Guy instead of Power Rangers as a child? Were you ready to spend sleepless nights perfecting your science fair project? Or maybe you dream of a career in science? Then this guide by Custom-Writing.org is perfect for you. Here, you’ll find...

A satire essay is a creative writing assignment where you use irony and humor to criticize people’s vices or follies. It’s especially prevalent in the context of current political and social events. A satirical essay contains facts on a particular topic but presents it in a comical way. This task...

Your mood leaves a lot to be desired. Everything around you is getting on your nerves. But still, there’s one thing that may save you: music. Just think of all the times you turned on your favorite song, and it lifted your spirits! So, why not write about it in a music essay? In this article, you’ll find all the information necessary for this type of assignment: 267 brilliant music...

Not everyone knows it, but globalization is not a brand-new process that started with the advent of the Internet. In fact, it’s been around throughout all of human history. This makes the choice of topics related to globalization practically endless.  If you need help choosing a writing idea, this Custom-Writing.org...

In today’s world, fashion has become one of the most significant aspects of our lives. It influences everything from clothing and furniture to language and etiquette. It propels the economy, shapes people’s personal tastes, defines individuals and communities, and satisfies all possible desires and needs. In this article, Custom-Writing.org experts...

Early motherhood is a very complicated social problem. Even though the number of teenage mothers globally has decreased since 1991, about 12 million teen girls in developing countries give birth every year. If you need to write a paper on the issue of adolescent pregnancy and can’t find a good...

Human rights are moral norms and behavior standards towards all people that are protected by national and international law. They represent fundamental principles on which our society is founded. Human rights are a crucial safeguard for every person in the world. That’s why teachers often assign students to research and...

Global warming has been a major issue for almost half a century. Today, it remains a topical problem on which the future of humanity depends. Despite a halt between 1998 and 2013, world temperatures continue to rise, and the situation is expected to get worse in the future. When it...

Have you ever witnessed someone face unwanted aggressive behavior from classmates? According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, 1 in 5 students says they have experienced bullying at least once in their lifetime. These shocking statistics prove that bullying is a burning topic that deserves detailed research. In this...

Recycling involves collecting, processing, and reusing materials to manufacture new products. With its help, we can preserve natural resources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and save energy. And did you know that recycling also creates jobs and supports the economy? If you want to delve into this exciting topic in your...

Amazing information, ladies and gentlemen.

Thank you for the great feedback!🙂

Thanks, Weirdo! 🙂

Thank you so much for your help. I really appreciate.

Hi, Thank you very much indeed for stopping by and leaving this kind comment. Don’t hesitate to browse our blog for even more useful materials or even subscribe to our bi-monthly newsletter to receive valuable info directly to your inbox. Kindest regards. Have a nice day!

You have a fantastic website! I’ve found here lots of helpful posts. This post on writing essays on human trafficking is my salvation. Thanks for the tips!

Perfect tips on writing essays on human trafficking! Thank you so much for your help! I really appreciate what you do!

What is Human Trafficking?

Introduction, what is human trafficking, factors that contribute to trafficking, consequences of trafficking, mitigating human trafficking.

One of the most significant problems faced by the global community in modern times is human trafficking. This activity, which involves recruitment and transportation of people with the aim of exploiting them, has been condemned as “modern-day slavery”. Organizations such as the USAID denounce it as a crime against humanity and it is decried for victimizing millions of poor people from different nations all over the world for profit.

The scale of human trafficking is high with estimates being made that up to 800,000 people are trafficked across international borders annually, while many more are trafficked within the borders of their own countries (Jac-Kucharski, 2012). The scale of this problem has made led to many governments considering ways to combat the issue.

Human trafficking is a crime that violates the human and labor rights of an individual. In spite of the condemnation by the international community, human trafficking has continued to occur over the past decade. This paper will set out to define human trafficking and highlight some of the factors why it continues to occur today. The paper will discuss the effects of human trafficking and highlight some of the steps undertaken to mitigate and eventually end this degrading activity.

Human trafficking is one of the greatest social ills of the twenty-first century. To understand what this ill entails, it would be important to offer an insightful definition of the term. In the view of Gonul (2012), human trafficking means “the recruitment, transportation or receipt of persons by means of the threat, coercion or deception to achieve the consent of a person having control over another person for the purpose of exploitation” (p.41).

From the definition, it can be observed that human trafficking involves the acquisition of people by improper means, including force, fraud or deception with the aim of exploiting them. Trafficked persons can travel voluntarily to their destination or then can be coerced or even kidnapped by the trafficker. When traveling is voluntarily, the trafficker deceives the victim that he/she is going to an agreed upon destination region for some enticing economic opportunity. The reality that the victim has been trafficked only emerges later.

A better understanding of what human smuggling is can be developed by contrasting it to human smuggling. Trafficking differs from human smuggling in a number of ways. While both activities involve the illegal movement of persons from one country to another, in smuggling, once the persons are in the designated country, they are released from any obligation to the transporter (Britton & Dean, 014).

In addition to this, the smuggled individuals know which country they are entering into and they often pay a lot of money to be moved into the country. In trafficking, the persons are moved illegally but they are not free from the transporter even after they are within the destination country.

In most cases, the transporter claims that the persons still owe them money and they have to work for them until the money is paid off (Britton & Dean, 2014). Another feature of trafficking is that the individual can be taken to a different country than originally planned or forced to engage in work that is different from what was initially agreed upon.

Figures of how many victims are involved in human trafficking are hard to get since the activity is shroud in secrecy. Collins (2014) comments that accurate figures are not available due to the secrecy of the crime and the fear that victims have of the retribution to themselves or their families should they escape or report their captors.

However, the USAID estimates that there are 12 to 27 million people enslaved and exploited through human trafficking (Collins, 2014). The exploitation of the trafficked persons takes place over a long period of time.

The primary cause of human trafficking is poverty, which makes an individual vulnerable to traffickers. Trafficking involves acquiring and exploiting other people. The victims of human trafficking are often poor and vulnerable. Gonul (2012) confirms that studies have clearly identified notions of poverty and vulnerability as key causes of trafficking. Specifically, the lack of economic opportunities by individuals in their home country or region has been identified as a cause of trafficking.

A person who is desperate to escape poverty is vulnerable to deceit by human traffickers who often promise to offer economic opportunities at the foreign locations. Jac-Kucharski (2012) explains that the potential victims experience a myriad of push factors that impel them to leave the areas of origin.

These factors include low living standards and the lack of economic opportunities. The United Nations (2008) elaborates that the allure of opportunity serves to drive the poor and vulnerable into dangerous situations where they are at great risk of being exploited.

However, it should be noted that it is not only the poorest of the population who are victims of trafficking. In some cases, people who enjoy a modest income in their home country become victims of trafficking. In these cases, the victims seek better employment opportunities in foreign countries.

The traffickers promise to transport them to the new destination and link them with good employment opportunities. Collins (2014) illustrates that there are cases were victims pay as much as $7,000 to traffickers who are believed to be brokers of travel or employment before they are enslaved.

While human trafficking has existed for many decades, some factors in the modern world have increased its occurrence. The most significant factors that have led to the increase in human trafficking cases is the ease of travel and communications and the economic globalization experienced over the past 3 decades. Due to these features, the international criminal organizations that profit from human trafficking are able to easily engage in multiple activities in various countries.

Gonul (2012) reveals that trafficking activities have broadened and diversified under the influence of globalization. Jac-Kucharski (2012) declares that globalization enhances the possibilities of organized crime groups by making it easy for them to work in tandem with local syndicates in the source countries to acquire trafficked individuals at a decreased cost and with greater efficiency.

In addition to this, globalization has contributed to an increase in human trafficking by creating more demand for trafficked individuals. Onuoha (2011) asserts that globalization has also served to encourage human trafficking by creating an increase in the demand for cheap labor provided by trafficked persons. The monetary incentive for the traffickers to enslave people has therefore become greater than it was in previous decades.

The potential benefits obtained by the trafficker from the trafficking process have contributed to the human trafficking phenomenon. Trafficking is a multi-billion dollar activity and the financial gains for traffickers is great. Unlike in human smuggling where the person is released from any obligation to the transporter once he/she has reached the designated country, trafficked people are required to continue paying money to the trafficker for extended durations of time.

The potential financial gains motivate the trafficker to engage in multiple crimes to traffic people. Jac-Kucharski (2012) documents that most victims are coerced into migration and forcefully moved across international borders.

The traffickers who engage in these actions take on significant risks since if they are discovered by the authorities they will face criminal punishment. However, many choose to engage in human trafficking since they are confident that the financial benefits of the activity are so substantial as to outweigh the potential risk of punishment.

Trafficking has many negative impacts on the individual and the society as a whole. Arguably the most damaging impact of human trafficking is the physical and psychological trauma experienced by the victims. Trafficked individuals are often subjected to various forms of abuse. The primary objective of the trafficker during the trafficking process is to keep the victim under control and ensure that the victim complies with all the rules. Abuse is the primary way through which the control is enforced all through the trafficking process.

The abuse includes physical violence, deprivation of food and sleep, sexual abuse and psychological abuse. Physical violence against the victims leads to injuries, disabilities and in extreme cases death. The United Nations (2008) reports that due to the prolonged and repeated abuse suffered by the trafficked persons, they experienced a myriad of psychological issues including PTSD, disorientation, anxiety, depression, and difficulty concentrating.

The trauma worsens over the course of the trafficking process and it is likely to persist even after the person is free from the exploitation. Trafficking therefore has long-term consequences on the lives of the victims who suffer during the process and even after they are freed.

Human trafficking has an enormous economic cost on the society. To begin with, the community is deprived of the productivity that would have been provided by the imprisoned traffickers. The trafficked individuals do not play a part in the enhancement of their society since they do not get paid or pay taxes. The other economic cost comes from the significant resources dedicated to the prevention of trafficking.

To combat the issue, governments have had to invest in additional law enforcement officers who investigate suspected crimes and arrest the perpetrators (Kaneti, 2011). The resources of the criminal justice system are also used to prosecute and imprison traffickers. In addition to this, the victims may need various social support services form the government.

This might be in the form of healthcare, welfare, or even witness protection. The United Nations (2008) reveals that the ongoing care and support of victims represents a significant economic burden for the home country of the victims.

A troubling impact of human trafficking is that it leads to an increase in crime levels in the society. Human trafficking is a hugely lucrative activity and it is estimated that this illicit crime network produces a revenue of $30 billion dollars annually. Neumann (2015) notes that human trafficking as a criminal enterprise is second only to drugs in terms of profitability to transnational organized crime groups. Due to the huge profit motivation, organized criminal groups are keen to continue engaging in this activity.

The revenue obtained by the criminal organizations from these activities are used to finance other crimes. Siskin and Wyler (2013) document that human trafficking operations are associated with other crimes including bribery, arms dealing, drug trafficking and money laundering. The significant financial resources obtained from the human trafficking operations enable these additional crimes.

The victims of trafficking also end up being used to engage in criminal activities. Siskin and Wyler (2013) report that women who are used as sex slaves are at times used to smuggle and distribute drugs. This report is corroborated by Neumann (2015) who reveals that in South America, victims of trafficking are forced into working for criminal organizations as prostitutes or drug runners.

From the various consequences of the trafficking in human beings illustrated above, it is evident that this activity is detrimental to the social, political and economic development of societies. The global community agrees that human trafficking is an undesirable and criminal activity. World leaders have acknowledged that trafficking in persons is “a form of modern slavery that violates human rights, country security, economies, and public health in every nation” (Collins, 2014, p.69).

There is agreement that action needs to be taken to deal with this issue. The United Nations (2008) recognizes that traditional methods of preventing human trafficking have failed to have a significant impact on the issue. It would therefore be important to consider effective ways of mitigating and eventually eradicating human trafficking.

Prevention strategies are deemed important in the quest to deal with trafficking. Collins (2014) notes that many nations attach a high level of importance to prevention efforts since they are deemed to be the best method to deal with human trafficking. The first widely adopted prevention strategy is the increase in public awareness on the issue.

The public involves the people who are at greatest risk of being lured by traffickers. In many instances, traffickers take advantage of the ignorance of their victims to engage in trafficking. Through public awareness campaigns, individuals can be informed on the tactics used by traffickers. Tverdova (2011) documents that many accounts of human trafficking have been made over the decade with the aim of publicizing the problem. This will help potential victims identify traffickers and avoid being trafficked.

Addressing the economic situations that predisposes people to exploitation by the traffickers is key to mitigating human trafficking. Nicola and Rijen (2014) declare that preventive measures must consider taking action in countries of origin, where the recruitment takes place. Specifically, the local situation in the country must be addressed.

As previously noted, poverty predisposes individuals to be victims of exploitation. Preventive measures should therefore address the issue of poverty. Such measures should reduce poverty and increase the education opportunities available to the at risk populations.

A significant step by the global community in combatting human trafficking was the adoption of the Trafficking Protocol in November 2000. This protocol, developed by the United Nations, sought to make it easier to identify trafficked persons and punish the traffickers (Kaneti, 2011). An important aspect of the protocol is that it was victim-friendly in that it protected the interests of the victims.

Some compensation and privacy compensation measures were included in the protocol. Since its adoption, the Trafficking protocol has been ratified by 117 countries and its articles are being applied in combatting human trafficking. The protocol has contributed in the rise in political and popular interest in combating human trafficking.

Another strategy to combat human trafficking is the enactment of stricter border policies. In most cases, human trafficking involves moving people across international borders. Traffickers make use of lax border rules or unsecured borders to move people from host country to destination country. Collins (2014) documents that traffickers rely on weak border controls and the bribery of boarder security guards and other officials to cross borders.

Securing the borders will therefore be an important step in preventing trafficking in person. Law enforcement patterns heavily influence the actions of traffickers. The United Nations (2008) asserts that stricter border controls will assist in the prevention of trafficking by deterring and preventing irregular movements across borders. If the risks involved in the trafficking process are too high, the traffickers will choose not to engage in this activities.

The international community has shown great commitment to addressing the human trafficking scourge facing the world today. International organizations such as the UN have taken on a leadership role in tackling the problem. Individual countries and the international community are not yet effective in fighting human trafficking or protecting and rehabilitating its victims (Tverdova, 2011).

However, the world has a greater understanding of what human trafficking entails, the general profile of the trafficking victims and how traffickers recruit potential victims. It can be hoped that with concerted effort, the world will be rid of human trafficking in future.

This paper set out to discuss the great social ill that is human trafficking with a focus on the factors that Contribute to its prevalence and ways to mitigate the heinous crime. It began by defining human trafficking as the activity involving the acquisition of people by improper means, including force, fraud or deception with the aim of exploiting them. Poverty has been highlighted as the primary driver of human trafficking. Traffickers exploit the economic situation of the poor to engage in this activity.

Globalization has also contributed to the increase in trafficking cases over the past decade. The paper has illustrated how human trafficking is detrimental to the social, political and economic development of societies. The paper has noted that effective counter-trafficking strategies can only be developed if one understands what drives the activity.

Prevention and mitigation strategies should therefore address the ignorance and poverty by the poor, who are the primary source of victims for the traffickers. The government should also enhance stricter border control to prevent traffickers from smuggling people out of the country. Human trafficking is a crime that violates the human and labor rights of an individual. All efforts must therefore be taken to abolish this heinous crime and therefore prevent the numerous negative consequences of human trafficking.

Britton, H., & Dean, L. (2014). Policy Responses to Human Trafficking in Southern Africa: omesticating International Norms. Human Rights Review, 15 (2), 305-328.

Collins, H. (2014). Human Trafficking in the Indo-Asia-Pacific Region. DISAM Journal of International Security Assistance Management. DISAM Annual, 3 (1), 69-77.

Gonul, O. (2012). International cooperation in combating human trafficking in the EU: evidence from Turkey. Irish Journal of Sociology, 20 (1), 39-64.

Jac-Kucharski, A. (2012). The Determinants of Human Trafficking: A US Case Study. International Migration, 50 (6), 150-165.

Kaneti, M. (2011). Project Trafficking: Global Unity in Addressing a Universal Challenge? Human Rights Review, 12 (1), 345-361.

Neumann, V. (2015). Never mind the metrics: disrupting human trafficking by other means. Journal of International Affairs, 68 (2), 39-53.

Nicola, J., & Rijen, C. (2014). Prevention of Human Trafficking for Labor Exploitation: The Role of Corporations. Journal of International Human Rights, 12 (1), 47-73.

Onuoha, B. (2011). The state human trafficking and human rights issues in Africa. Contemporary Justice Review, 14 (2), 149-166.

Siskin, A., & Wyler, L. (2013). Trafficking in Persons: U.S. Policy and Issues for Congress. Washington, DC: Congressional Research Service.

Tverdova, Y. (2011). Human Trafficking in Russia and Other Post-Soviet States. Human Rights Review, 12 (3), 329-344.

United Nations (2008). An introduction to human trafficking: vulnerability, impact and action. Vienna: United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.

Cite this paper

• Chicago (N-B)
• Chicago (A-D)

StudyCorgi. (2020, May 8). What is Human Trafficking? https://studycorgi.com/what-is-human-trafficking/

"What is Human Trafficking?" StudyCorgi , 8 May 2020, studycorgi.com/what-is-human-trafficking/.

StudyCorgi . (2020) 'What is Human Trafficking'. 8 May.

1. StudyCorgi . "What is Human Trafficking?" May 8, 2020. https://studycorgi.com/what-is-human-trafficking/.

Bibliography

StudyCorgi . "What is Human Trafficking?" May 8, 2020. https://studycorgi.com/what-is-human-trafficking/.

StudyCorgi . 2020. "What is Human Trafficking?" May 8, 2020. https://studycorgi.com/what-is-human-trafficking/.

This paper, “What is Human Trafficking?”, was written and voluntary submitted to our free essay database by a straight-A student. Please ensure you properly reference the paper if you're using it to write your assignment.

Before publication, the StudyCorgi editorial team proofread and checked the paper to make sure it meets the highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, fact accuracy, copyright issues, and inclusive language. Last updated: October 23, 2020 .

If you are the author of this paper and no longer wish to have it published on StudyCorgi, request the removal . Please use the “ Donate your paper ” form to submit an essay.

Essay on Human Trafficking

Students are often asked to write an essay on Human Trafficking in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Human Trafficking

Understanding human trafficking.

Human trafficking is a serious global issue. It involves the illegal trade of people for exploitation or commercial gain. Victims are often lured with false promises of well-paying jobs or manipulated by people they trust.

Types of Human Trafficking

The main types of human trafficking are forced labor, sex trafficking, and child trafficking. Forced labor involves making people work against their will. Sex trafficking involves forcing victims into sexual exploitation. Child trafficking includes all these forms but involves children.

Preventing Human Trafficking

To prevent human trafficking, we must raise awareness about its reality. Educating people about its signs and consequences can help prevent it. Additionally, supporting victim services is crucial.

Also check:

• Paragraph on Human Trafficking
• Speech on Human Trafficking

250 Words Essay on Human Trafficking

Human trafficking, a grave violation of human rights, is a complex issue that has plagued societies globally. It is a form of modern-day slavery, where individuals are exploited through force, fraud, or coercion for various purposes such as forced labor, sexual exploitation, or organ trafficking.

The Scale of the Problem

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) reports that human trafficking is the third most profitable crime after drug trafficking and arms smuggling. This illicit trade thrives due to poverty, political instability, armed conflict, and corruption, affecting millions of victims, predominantly women and children.

Measures to Combat Human Trafficking

Addressing human trafficking requires a multi-faceted approach. Legal measures, such as strict laws and penalties, are crucial. The Palermo Protocol, adopted by the UN, provides a framework for criminalizing trafficking, protecting victims, and promoting cooperation among states.

The Role of Education and Awareness

Education and awareness play a pivotal role in combating human trafficking. By informing communities about the tactics used by traffickers and the rights of individuals, we can empower potential victims to protect themselves.

Human trafficking is a pressing issue that demands global attention and action. Through a combination of legal measures, education, and international cooperation, we can work towards eradicating this heinous crime and safeguarding human dignity.

500 Words Essay on Human Trafficking

Introduction to human trafficking.

Human trafficking, a grave violation of human rights, is a contemporary global issue that transcends borders, cultures, and economies. It is a multi-billion dollar criminal industry that enslaves nearly 25 million people around the world. This heinous crime involves the illegal trade of people for exploitation or commercial gain and is often referred to as ‘modern-day slavery’.

The Mechanics of Human Trafficking

Human trafficking operates on the principles of supply and demand. The demand for cheap labor, sexual services, and certain criminal activities fuels this illicit trade. The supply side, however, is driven by factors such as poverty, lack of education, gender discrimination, armed conflict, and political instability. Traffickers exploit these vulnerabilities to lure victims with false promises of employment, education, or a better life.

Forms of Human Trafficking

Human trafficking manifests in various forms, including forced labor, sex trafficking, child labor, and organ trafficking. Forced labor, also known as involuntary servitude, is the biggest sector of trafficking in the world. Sex trafficking victims are often involved in prostitution, pornography, or sex tourism. Child trafficking, another gruesome form, involves the exploitation of children in labor, soldiering, or sexual slavery. Organ trafficking, a lesser-known form, involves the illegal trade of organs.

Impacts of Human Trafficking

The impacts of human trafficking are devastating and far-reaching. Victims often suffer physical and emotional abuse, rape, threats, and even death. Additionally, they often face long-term psychological trauma, disease, unwanted pregnancy, malnutrition, social ostracism, and death. The societal implications include the reinforcement of gender and social inequalities, perpetuation of poverty, and undermining of public health, safety, and security.

Preventing human trafficking requires a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach. It involves strengthening laws and regulations, enhancing victim identification and protection, promoting awareness and education, and fostering international cooperation. Governments, non-governmental organizations, and individuals all have crucial roles to play in this fight against human trafficking.

In conclusion, human trafficking is a global human rights crisis that requires urgent attention and action. While the task is monumental, with concerted efforts and a commitment to uphold human rights, it is possible to combat this modern-day slavery. Understanding the complexities of human trafficking is the first step towards developing effective strategies to prevent it, protect victims, and prosecute perpetrators. The fight against human trafficking is not just a legal or political issue, but a moral imperative that tests our values as a global community.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

• Essay on Human Rights
• Essay on How to Have a Healthy Lifestyle
• Essay on How Can We Save Our Environment

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

One Comment

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Deep-Sixing Pornographic Deepfakes for Good

More from our inbox:, analyzing trump voters spare me., a ‘deep state’ makeover.

To the Editor:

Re “ Deepfake Violations, Met With a Shrug ,” by Nicholas Kristof (column, March 24):

Mr. Kristof underscores the urgent need to address the distressing prevalence of nonconsensual A.I. sexual content online and in top search engine results, to protect individuals, particularly the women and girls overwhelmingly targeted, from exploitation and harm.

I urge all readers to raise their voices by sending letters, emails or open letters tagged on social media and LinkedIn to Google and Microsoft Bing executives and social media teams. Our collective advocacy can amplify the call for these tech giants to take proactive measures in removing such content from their search results.

In an era when technological advancements outpace regulatory frameworks, it is imperative that entities like Google and Microsoft take responsible, decisive action to uphold ethical standards online. Together, we can make a significant difference in creating a safer digital landscape for all.

Brittany Poley Washington

From Nicholas Kristof’s column: “She passed another group of girls crying for the same reason — and a cluster of boys mocking them. ‘When I saw the boys laughing, I got so mad,’ Francesca said. ‘After school, I came home, and I told my mom we need to do something about this.’

Why was Francesca allowed by school staff to leave the assistant principal’s office (alone, it seems) to go back to class, instead of being taken out of that hellhole for the day? Why were those boys allowed by the school staff to cluster in the hallways? Why were those boys allowed by school staff to continue saying what they did?

Why were those boys not immediately removed from the hallways by the school staff? Why were the school staff (especially the male staff members) not explaining to those boys what they did wrong and why, and disciplining them? Why did school staff not report those boys to their parents?

The overwhelming isolation and continuing exposure of Francesca and other victims to mocking boys were appalling.

Phillipa Rispin Montreal

More than five years ago, publicly available, nonpornographic photographs of me taken between the age of 14 and 21 were posted on pornographic websites. The same thing happened to more than 20 other women I had gone to high school with.

The perpetrator had included our names when uploading the photographs and called on viewers to describe exactly what they would like to do to us. One of my photos included my first and last names and the name of my former school.

It was clear that the perpetrator had to be someone with whom we had all gone to high school — someone we knew, someone who knew us. That added to the torment.

We contacted the police. Laws concerning harassment and the right to decide how one’s image is used enabled the police to begin a full investigation in which the perpetrator was identified and ultimately convicted of a more serious crime, distributing child pornography. I won a civil suit against him.

On one website, the perpetrator had asked others to photoshop our pictures to make them pornographic. Reading Nicholas Kristof’s article, I am relieved that the technology for low-effort deepfakes was not easily available at the time. I just wish girls and women in the United States were better protected now that it is.

Miriam Betz Cologne, Germany

Why must the burden fall on girls and women to defend themselves against online exploitation? Why are we not extending the responsibility to parents and teachers of boys to educate them about technology, misogyny and ethics?

As a mother of two teenage boys, I’ve witnessed the inappropriate use (abuse) of technology firsthand and have spent countless hours overseeing their devices and instructing them how to use them responsibly.

Their actions are innocent and age-appropriate in almost every case; however, they don’t understand how everything they do online is essentially public, and how seemingly innocuous messaging (in their minds) can be misinterpreted, taken out of context, go viral and possibly do immense damage.

Schools and parents are arming kids with tools that easily turn into weapons when their proper use is not taught, and the arming begins when kids are toddlers and parents use the smartphone as a babysitter. It’s insane.

Get the smartphones out of childhood, and out of schools, and maybe we won’t have to put girls and women in the awful position of being eternal victims. Society has created this mess, and society needs to clean it up. Stop making it a women’s problem to deal with, and change the way we educate our boys.

Julie Bayer Salzman Venice, Calif.

Nicholas Kristof indicates that no laws are being clearly broken and that no laws can be enforced.

One solution is to help women and girls file class-action lawsuits against digital platforms — be they porn or Google — that derive any financial benefit for copyright infringement. These lawsuits can charge the platforms with financially benefiting from the unauthorized access of another’s name, image or likeness (NIL in digital parlance).

If a company can’t make money off an activity, or if their normal means of driving revenue is threatened by an activity, that company changes. It may not be a moral or legislative solution, but it can be effective nonetheless. Coordinate with state attorneys general, as occurred with the tobacco settlements, and states will jump at the chance to take money from online platforms.

Alexander Byington Lone Tree, Colo.

I’m grateful The Times covers human trafficking, pornography and abuse with depth and care, and I’ve been a fan of Nicholas Kristof for decades.

Still, I would like to argue that the use of the term “nonconsensual pornography” is problematic at best. While I understand the usefulness of the distinction regarding consent, the phrase is politically weighted, as it suggests a position about the victimless nature of pornography.

There is an argument to be made that because of the confines of our society, gender and monetary dynamics, as well as the way abuse affects and tracks its victims, no pornography is consensual. While I don’t expect The Times or Mr. Kristof to take that position, I think it would be meaningful not to propagate language that excluded the possibility.

Jennifer Flescher Melrose, Mass.

Ah, ain’t technology innovation wonderful? Unfortunately, not this one.

While reading Nicholas Kristof’s column, I couldn’t help thinking again of how society seems to have no problem with celebrity women — mainly movie and TV stars — participating in red carpet walks before award events flaunting designer clothing that barely conceals breasts and sometimes nearly exposes genitals, while their male escorts are covered neck to toe in formal suits.

Even in day-to-day life, women’s clothing is often somewhat revealing or chest-enhancing while men are mostly fully covered in suits and ties, or even in casual attire.

Now A.I. is making it worse.

I don’t want to see Western societies adopt the strict clothing standards for women in the Middle East. But why can’t our society adopt a respectable-clothing standard that is equal for both sexes?

James P. Brown Rio Rancho, N.M.

Re “ How Trump’s Base Has Changed, According to a Pollster ,” by Jane Coaston (Opinion, nytimes.com, March 18):

Good Lord, spare us from even more analysis of Trump voters. As if these people will let the facts get in the way of their undying and blind support for this con artist and hopefully soon-to-be-convicted felon.

Every time I read an article like this one, or see the news media playing both-sides-ism interviewing a Trump supporter, my anxiety only increases.

One such supporter said on TV recently that America needs a dictator. Another said that if Donald Trump actually shot someone it would not shake his support for the former president. There is no reasoning with people who have sunk that far down the political rabbit hole. Frankly, I don’t really care what they think.

Look, the November election comes down to a very, very simple choice: People can vote for a decent human being, a man with vast political experience who is not afraid to compromise, a caring and empathetic person with a moral center who actually knows how to govern. A man who has a positive vision for the country.

Or they can vote for Donald Trump.

Len DiSesa Dresher, Pa.

It Turns Out the ‘Deep State’ Is Actually Kind of Awesome

Meet the unsung heroes making our country great..

[APPLAUSE] “I will totally obliterate the deep state. I will fire —” Donald Trump is obsessed with the “deep state.” “The deep state — The deep state — The deep state is destroying our nation. Either the deep state destroys America, or we destroy the deep state.” And many Republicans are widening his paranoia. “These unelected bureaucrats ruining this country.” From a cabal of security agents to “The sick political class that hates our country.” If elected, Trump’s vowed to gut the federal government. “Reinstate the Schedule F executive order and, quote, ‘fire rogue bureaucrats.’” But who are these bureaucrats, and what makes them so dangerous? We needed answers, so we took a trip across America. “In 100 yards, take the exit.” In search of the people behind this threatening entity. [LAUGHS] [LAUGHS] First stop, Huntsville, Ala. Sure looks like some nefarious government activity happens around here. “You have reached your destination.” Meet Scott Bellamy. “I am a mission manager in the Planetary Missions Program Office.” He drives a Nissan Titan four by four. He’s loved “Star Trek” since he was a kid. “Of course I have a favorite character. It’s either Captain Kirk or Mr. Spock.” And he may have quite literally saved the planet from annihilation. “Potentially.” You see, Scott managed a mission called “The Double Asteroid Redirection Test.” And back in 2022, his team used your tax dollars to pull off something kind of incredible. “You have an asteroid, and you have a spacecraft, and you fly the spacecraft into the asteroid and try to change the trajectory of that asteroid. It’s like playing pool in space. Everybody was holding their breath. This is the moment of truth. Did we hit it?” [APPLAUSE] “We got it?” “And we have impact.” “We got it.” “A giant leap for [INAUDIBLE].” They knocked an asteroid off its course, proving something that had previously only been done in movies. “Saving the world from an ‘Armageddon’ scenario, potentially.” Next, we traveled deep into the swamp itself, Washington, D.C. “You have arrived.” This is Radhika Fox. “I am the assistant administrator for water at the Environmental Protection Agency.” She loves Pilates, making salads and watching the Taylor Swift Eras Tour on TV with her family. “I think we’re all pretty 1989.” Oh, and she led an operation to make our drinking water lead-free in 10 years. “That’s the dream.” “Worried and angry about lead contamination, residents of Newark, N.J., are demanding bottled water and answers.” “Lead is a neurotoxin that can cause irreversible brain damage. Folks are drinking out of these pipes right now.” “Every single American child will soon be able to turn on that faucet, and their moms and dads know that the water they’re drinking is clean.” When President Biden announced a nationwide plan to remove lead water pipes, Radhika’s team made it happen. “Yep. That’s right.” Water utilities would be legally required to replace all remaining lead pipes. “Nine million in 10 years or less.” It’s an expensive bet. “$50 billion. But those benefits are truly priceless because it’s the well-being of this nation that’s at stake.” You want to replace your own water pipes? You got the skills to launch an asteroid-deflecting spacecraft? No. That’s why your tax dollars pay experts like Radhika and Scott. Important work like this is happening all over America, from helping two million victims of the opioid crisis to engineering major breakthroughs in nuclear fusion and helping make hearing aids affordable for 30 million people. Yup. The “deep state” is hard at work making America great. Just because we don’t know about it doesn’t make it suspicious. “You have arrived.” Our final stop, Chicago, Ill. [MUSIC PLAYING] Meet Nancy Alcantara. “I am the acting director of enforcement for the wage and hour division for the Midwest regional office for the U.S. Department of Labor. I had to take a breath, yes.” She still eats Lucky Charms for breakfast, trains for marathons and loves Latin dancing. “Cumbia, bachata, cha-cha-cha. You name it, I did it.” And she uses your tax dollars to get kids out of working in dangerous slaughterhouses. “13-, 14-, 15-year-olds working on the kill floor. Cleaning body parts, right? Animal carcasses. They’re working with machinery, such as skull splitters, bone splitters.” Nancy and her colleagues raided slaughterhouses in several states and found more than 100 children working illegally. Last year their employer, Packers Sanitation, was fined $1.5 million — one of the largest child labor cases in American history. “Kids would die. Kids would get limbs amputated. I don’t even want to imagine what would happen if no one did this job.” These guys work for you, but Trump wants them working for him. “Trump wants to fire at least thousands of these people that he calls pejoratively the deep state.” “Schedule F would allow Trump to fire up to 50,000 of them and replace them with like-minded people.” “Sometimes it’s really hard to read the newspaper, where you feel like we as public servants are being attacked.” Now, this doesn’t mean that Americans can’t have different ideas about how big the federal government should be. After all, there’s no shortage of examples of real government overreach and overspend. But Trump’s teaching us to expect the worst from people in government when the truth is, they’re actually some of our best. [MUSIC PLAYING]

Re “ It Turns Out the ‘Deep State’ Is Actually Kind of Awesome ,” by Adam Westbrook and Lindsay Crouse (Opinion video, nytimes.com, March 19):

Thank you for showing some of the faces and hard work done by the “deep state” workers. Most people I’ve talked to in government organizations are hardworking and trying to do their best. They’re our neighbors and fellow citizens, too!

Why not defuse Donald Trump’s scary deep state boogeyman and make the deep state a badge of honor? Imagine a softball team from federal government agencies with “Deep State Bliss” T-shirts! Soccer moms and dads with “Hug a Deep Stater” T-shirts. Employment recruitment tables with “Deep State” baseball caps.

The “deep state” needs a P.R. makeover highlighting human connections.

Rob Pauley Boulder, Colo.

A scammer pretending to be Keanu Reeves hit her up. She hit back.

In ‘keanu reeves is not in love with you,’ becky holmes takes readers on a guided tour of the world of romance fraud.

In 2022 alone, according to some estimates , hopeful singles looking to find love online lost between $30 billion and $50 billion to scammers. Online romance scams come in a dizzying array of iterations — there are the now-familiar Nigerian princes and the lonely military personnel trying to get home, then there are the pig butchers , the Tinder swindlers , the Nigerian Yahoo Boys and their Ghanaian corollary, the Sakawa boys . But there are also scams that don’t have names yet, scams whose devastating effects are almost certainly already playing out in lives the world over. It’s enough to make a girl permanently delete her dating apps, or maybe just throw her phone straight into the ocean.

And if you’re anything like Becky Holmes, it might be enough to radicalize you.

Better known to her social media followers as @deathtospinach, Holmes’s journey into the dark underbelly of romance fraud began innocuously enough. Like many , she joined Twitter in 2020 during the early days of the covid pandemic. And like many, she was instantly bombarded with messages from “impossibly handsome men who were absolutely desperate to get to know me.”

At first, like most, Holmes simply blocked and reported her would-be lovers. But as she documents in her new book, “ Keanu Reeves Is Not In Love With You: The Murky World of Online Romance Fraud ,” out of a mixture of boredom and curiosity she soon began corresponding with these scammers, who were impersonating not only oil rig engineers and doctors but also, rather implausibly, celebrities. After Holmes started sharing her exchanges with a royal flush of faux-celebrities — from Reeves to Liam Neeson , from Prince William to Elon Musk — with her growing audience, victims of these scams began to reach out with stories of their own. It is these stories, many of which ended in heartbreak and financial ruin, that form the backbone of “Keanu Reeves Is Not in Love with You.”

One need only look at the online response to a recent essay by the Cut’s financial advice columnist Charlotte Cowles, in which she details how she lost $50,000 to an “Amazon” scam call, to understand that the average reaction to online fraud victims is derision. It’s fear of that reaction that keeps victims of these scams from speaking to the press or the police. Fortunately, Holmes, a self-described “technological dunce,” belongs to neither institution. Her expertise is delivered in homespun prose with pops of vulgar blue. At times, she veers off into the sort of asides that one might expect in a Twitter thread or a Tumblr post, describing in detail the war she waged — and lost — against a source’s Maine coon cat or frequently declaring her love for the Italian vermouth Cinzano.

There are benefits to this approach. Few professional writers could get away with describing a private detective and expert on the Sakawa Boys as “a well-dressed sexy bugger with eyelashes that any woman would pay thousands of pounds for.” And Holmes (who is British, if that wasn’t clear) is at her strongest when drawing on her relationships to the victims she’s befriended. Her prose radiates empathy, with none of the artificial distance that journalists or academics enforce between themselves and their subjects. The result is firsthand stories of women whose lives were ruined — or, at least, whose life savings were emptied — because they had the audacity to desire love. Women who were, almost without exception, left with little legal or financial recourse to recoup their losses due to both the international and digital nature of most of these crimes as well as the impotence of the government bureaus newly tasked with prosecuting them.

By the end of “Keanu Reeves Is Not In Love With You,” Holmes’ charming grasp of romance fraud, unpolished as it is, is undeniable. Still, her autodidactism has its limits. During the course of her research, Holmes accessed a message from a Yahoo Boy which she describes as the most “vitriolic” statement she’s ever read, “even in fiction.” Yahoo Boys are the spiritual descendants of the Nigerian prince — their name comes from the woebegone email service, and they’ve been linked to a surge of social media sextortion in the United States . In the message that Holmes publishes verbatim, the anonymous scammer writes, “When your British people was colonizing, enslaving, exploiting and impoverishing us, stealing our crude oil and other natural resources, creating artificial boundaries in Africa, making us hungry and the dying breeds, what were you thinking/ How do you want us to survive?” The scammer goes on to threaten the message’s recipient, promising to “use your picture for impersonation too.”

It’s a vile message, sure, and that is largely where Holmes’ analysis of it stops. But there’s a thread that a different writer might have pulled on: Could the Yahoo boys exist without the aftershocks of British imperialism? It’s a line of inquiry worth pursuing: The top three countries when it comes to running online scams (Nigeria, Ghana and Malaysia) are all former British colonies. To ignore the history of colonial extraction that gave rise to the Yahoo Boys and their ilk is to do a disservice — to them and their victims.

It’s one of Holmes’ few missteps. The compassion that makes this book so persuasive isn’t reserved just for the mostly Western victims of romance fraud. When Holmes learns of the thousands of people held captive in scam compounds in countries like Cambodia, her own bitterness at a state of affairs that allows this kind of human trafficking to go largely unpunished is clear. “When I learned of this, I had to keep checking to make sure I’d got it right,” Holmes writes of the compounds, where abductees are forced to perpetrate the very crimes she’d been rebuffing and mocking. “We are well into the twenty-first century — how the hell is this happening?” There are dozens of answers to her question, running the gamut from sociological to geopolitical to philosophical. But what Holmes makes clear is that those answers don’t really matter to the victims of these crimes, or to those who, sometimes unwillingly, commit them.

Rachelle Hampton is a culture writer for Slate and host of the internet culture podcast “In Case You Missed It.”

Keanu Reeves Is not in Love with You

The Murky World of Online Romance Fraud

By Becky Holmes

Unbound. 257 pp. $16.95

More from Book World

Love everything about books? Make sure to subscribe to our Book Club newsletter , where Ron Charles guides you through the literary news of the week.

Best books of 2023: See our picks for the 10 best books of 2023 or dive into the staff picks that Book World writers and editors treasured in 2023. Check out the complete lists of 50 notable works for fiction and the top 50 nonfiction books of last year.

Find your favorite genre: Three new memoirs tell stories of struggle and resilience, while five recent historical novels offer a window into other times. Audiobooks more your thing? We’ve got you covered there, too . If you’re looking for what’s new, we have a list of our most anticipated books of 2024 . And here are 10 noteworthy new titles that you might want to consider picking up this April.

Still need more reading inspiration? Super readers share their tips on how to finish more books . Or let poet and essayist Hanif Abdurraqib explain why he stays in Ohio . You can also check out reviews of the latest in fiction and nonfiction .

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Human Trafficking in the USA Research Paper

Introduction, research questions, literature review, methodology, analysis and findings.

The given paper is devoted to one of the most topical social stigmas of modern society that is human trafficking. Despite numerous attempts to eliminate the problem, there is a tendency towards further growth in the number of cases related to human trafficking. For this reason, the paper delves into the selected issue with the primary aim to analyze the central concerns and causes for the emergence of new problems in the given domain. The work also contains the literature review devoted to the discussed aspect to reveal existing trends and improve the understanding of the concept and its current state in the USA. This section is followed by the description of the chosen methodology that is utilized to analyze human trafficking and current tendencies along with the future of the problem. Findings are summarized at the end of the paper.

Human trafficking has always been an ongoing issue for society. For a long period, certain individuals had been a good that guaranteed a stable income for traffickers. Slavery was a beneficial business that satisfied the need for a cheap workforce. However, the development of the society and rise of humanism resulted in the reconsideration of the attitude towards this phenomenon and the complete prohibition of all forms of human trafficking. Unfortunately, despite this fact, the current state is far from an ideal one in the coherent society. By the latest reports, 24.9 million people were victims of human trafficking all over the world (UNODC, 2016). For this reason, there is an obvious need for an in-depth investigation of the issue with the primary aim to improve the situation.

In the USA, the situation also remains complicated. According to the existing legislation, human trafficking is defined as the form of slavery that involves illegal smuggling and trading of people with different purposes including forced labor and sexual exploitation (UNODC, 2016). All kinds of this phenomenon are prohibited in the USA, and there is a set of laws that are introduced to improve the situation in the sphere. However, federal agencies report that there is a negative tendency towards the deterioration of the situation as more and more people become forced to work or provide some services; in 2016, 57,700 people became the victims of human trafficking in the USA (US Department of State, 2016). This number includes both citizens of the state and immigrants. Regarding the scope of the problem, it becomes obvious that the in-depth investigation is the key to the improved understanding of the issue and the creation of an efficient solution to reduce the number of cases and eliminate this social stigma.

Therefore, the given paper suggests several research questions to guarantee the comprehensive investigation of the problem of human trafficking in the USA and its current state. These are

• What are the main forms of trafficking?
• What are the central causes for the growth in the number of trafficked people?
• What are the primary motifs of trapped individuals?
• What ways do traffickers use to find potential victims?

Utilizing these research questions, we will be able to investigate the problem from different perspectives and outline its central aspects. At the same time, these will help to predict the future of the selected phenomenon and speak about possible ways to improve the situation in the sphere.

The paper also utilizes the hypothesis that comes from the peculiarities of modern society and existing trends that impact people, their choices, and motifs. For this reason, it is formulated in the following way:

The growth of human trafficking in the USA is preconditioned by the complicated social conditions, need for new sources of income, increased number of disadvantaged groups, and the rise of the Internet and social media that is used as one of the primary tools to find potential victims.

The suggested hypothesis reflects existing tendencies in the selected sphere and provides the list of key factors that might impact the scope of the problem and its further development. For this reason, the literature review and the analysis are introduced to prove or refute this statement and outline the basic aspects of human trafficking in the USA.

All sources devoted to human trafficking are united in the opinion that the problem is one of the central concerns of the modern age as it poses a serious threat to peoples security, dishonors individuals, and deprives them of any rights to protect themselves. As for the USA, the National Human Trafficking Hotline reports that in 2017, 8,759 cases were determined (HTS Staff, 2018). These represent about 10,000 individual victims, 5,000 potential traffickers, and around 1,500 companies connected with the issue (HTS Staff, 2018). The statistics are dissatisfying as there is a 13% increase if compare to 2016 (HTS Staff, 2018). Moreover, only 35% of survivors inform agencies about the negative experience they had (HTS Staff, 2018). It means that the actual number is much higher and there is a need for some immediate actions to improve the situation.

Analyzing the problem, one can admit that particular groups face a higher risk of being trafficked if compare with others. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Latin people are the most represented category (1,230 cases in the USA) (US Department of State, 2016). It is followed by Asians, White, and African-Americans (US Department of State, 2016). Additionally, young women and girls comprise 80% of all identified survivors (US Department of State, 2016). This fact evidences the persisting tendency towards the victimization of females because of their more vulnerable position to use them in the sex industry or some other spheres (US Department of State, 2016). Children also comprise a significant part of this group (20%). In such a way, there is credible evidence of the complexity of the problem and its further sophistication.

There are three central types of trafficking that are reported in the USA. These are sex, sex and labor, and labor ones (Polaris, n.d.). By the Polaris (n.d.) report, 6,244 of all survivors were engaged in the sex industry (escort services, residential, and outdoor solicitation). 1, 274 individuals performed domestic work, worked in the agricultural sphere, or peddled (Polaris, n.d.). Finally, the smallest group had to provide services in the massage business and strip clubs (Polaris, n.d.). These numbers show that unfortunately people are still considered a good that can be sold to satisfy some sexual desires. At the same time, the stable and high income peculiar to this sphere increases the demand for young and attractive individuals who can become sex workers. That is why this type remains the most popular one.

Traditionally, researchers outline central risk factors that increase the risk of becoming a victim. These are closely connected with a persons social status and his/her position in society. The recent migration or relocation is the first aspect that attracts traffickers as this group of people might experience numerous hardships and might need money (UNODC, n.d.). Addicted people comprise another category as they can be easily managed by using drugs or other substances to make them work (Polaris, n.d.). Homeless youth face a high risk of being trafficked (UNODC, n.d.). By the statistics, runaway teenagers more often become victims if compare with normal ones (Polaris, n.d.). Finally, people with mental concerns can be trafficked because of their vulnerability caused by their health status and inability to understand the current situation.

Investigators also find the most common recruitment tactics that are used by malefactors to attract a victim and ensure that he/she will have to use their services. Statistics show that job offers and marriage propositions are two central methods utilized to find individuals who will later be exploited in labor or sexual spheres (Polaris, n.d.). The efficiency of these approaches is explained by the fact that usually, people with particular financial or private problems are interested in obviously risky job or marriage offers. Correctly realizing this fact, traffickers provide false promises regarding the salary, working conditions, or potential partner to attract an individual and guarantee the high level of his/her interest in a deal (Musto, 2016). In such a way, the efficiency of these two methods rests on the tendency towards the complication of the existing social intercourse, rise of unemployment, and problematic migration.

It becomes obvious that traffickers prey on individuals vulnerabilities to increase the efficiency of recruiting. Nichols (2016) states that their ability to analyze people and select the most efficient method rests on the spread of technologies, the Internet, and social media. The given platform provides limitless access to personal data that can be used for different purposes. In the majority of cases, individuals who face particular problems, look for a job, or want to marry, use websites that can be easily found (Nichols, 2016). They also provide private information regarding their social status, sources of income, family. That is why, malefactors can increase the efficiency of their methods by selecting the approach that will guarantee the best possible outcome (Nichols, 2016). At the same time, the utilization of this method results in the increased complexity of discovering cases of this sort because of the existence of thousands of websites with similar services and their problematic investigation.

Fortunately, there are some ways to obtain help and improve the situation. Investigators of the problem admit the fact that interference of the family might scare traffickers and minimize a threat. At the same time, interaction with the law enforcement and criminal justice systems can also serve as the guarantee of the low risk and the ability to avoid all traps (Belles, 2015). Furthermore, numerous researchers state the access to social services can also reduce the number of crimes of this sort and result in the improvement of the situation in the sphere.

Cogitating on the rise of human trafficking in the USA and the central causes, Archer (2013) looks for some interrelation between the state of the society and the scope of the problem. Analyzing the number of unemployed people, the annual income of disadvantaged population groups, and the lack of social protection, he concludes that these factors could be considered the root causes for the growth of peoples dissatisfaction with their current status, the emergence of particular needs, and their contacts with traffickers (Archer, 2013). Additionally, a vulnerable position of migrants also contributes to their victimization and becoming one of the risk groups.

Nevertheless, there is another problem related to human trafficking in the USA. The fact is that the majority of the population remains misinformed about the current state of the problem and its real scope. Media plays one of the central roles in it. Due to the false media representation, Americans do not realize the fact that they can become trafficked and will need help to become free (“Human trafficking in the US: Misconceptions vs. reality,” 2018). Moreover, almost all anti-trafficking campaigns disregard the fact that women of color comprise the bigger part of all victims because of their traditionally high vulnerability and the lack of social protection (“Human trafficking in the US: Misconceptions vs. reality,” 2018). That is why the USA still has a problem with the correct identification and determination of human trafficking.

Thy hypothesis mentioned above and the suggested research questions demand a particular research method to guarantee the comprehensive investigation of the issue. In such a way, the qualitative research method is chosen. There are two variables in the paper. The number of trafficked people can be considered a dependent variable as it is affected by numerous factors like gender, social status, guarantees, level of income, and family. These are considered the independent variable as they impact the state of the problem in the USA, its further development, and peoples readiness to use services that promise good jobs or husbands. The utilization of this method demands the use of the information in the literature review to compare data and analyze it.

Having collected data related to the discussed problem, we can observe the tendency towards the further deterioration of the situation in the sphere. There is statistical evidence of the growth in the number of trafficked people if compare with previous years. Women still comprise the bigger part of all victims (80%). At the same time, particular ethnicities face a higher risk of being forced to work. The findings also prove the hypothesis as investigators admit the direct correlation between the number of victims and the gradual deterioration of their social status, low income, absence of social protection, and the rise of the Internet that is used as one of the central tools to find individuals with particular problems.

Human trafficking remains a serious problem in the USA. Statistics show that about 50,000 people become victims annually, and the majority of them are women. The increased importance of the issue can be explained by the tendency towards the growth of unemployment rates, and the problematic access to social protection. In such a way, there is an obvious need to introduce some measures to improve the situation and reduce the number of victims who suffer from false promises, humiliation, exploitation, and even slavery. Improved access to social services and better living conditions can be considered key factors needed to reconsider the approach to the problem and help people in need.

Archer, D. (2013). Human trafficking in America . Web.

Belles, N. (2015). In our backyard: Human trafficking in America and what we can do to stop it . New York, NY: Baker Books.

HTS Staff. (2018). 2017 human trafficking statistics. Web.

Human trafficking in the US: Misconceptions vs. reality . (2018). Web.

Musto, J. (2016). Control and protect: Collaboration, carceral protection, and domestic sex trafficking in the United States . Oakland, CA: University of California Press.

Nichols, A. (2016). Sex trafficking in the United States: Theory, research, policy, and practice. New York, NY: Columbia University Press.

Polaris. (n.d.). Growing awareness. Growing impact . Web.

UNODC. (n.d.). UNODC report on human trafficking exposes the modern form of slavery . Web.

UNODC. (2016). Global report on trafficking in persons . Web.

US Department of State. (2016). Trafficking in persons report . Web.

• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2021, June 22). Human Trafficking in the USA. https://ivypanda.com/essays/human-trafficking-in-the-usa/

"Human Trafficking in the USA." IvyPanda , 22 June 2021, ivypanda.com/essays/human-trafficking-in-the-usa/.

IvyPanda . (2021) 'Human Trafficking in the USA'. 22 June.

IvyPanda . 2021. "Human Trafficking in the USA." June 22, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/human-trafficking-in-the-usa/.

1. IvyPanda . "Human Trafficking in the USA." June 22, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/human-trafficking-in-the-usa/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Human Trafficking in the USA." June 22, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/human-trafficking-in-the-usa/.

• Trafficking Causes Child Abuse and Neglect
• Trafficking of Children and Women: A Global Perspective
• Human Trafficking in the United States
• Human Trafficking between Africa and Europe: Security Issues
• Child Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation
• Human trafficking in Mozambique
• Human Trafficking Is a Global Affair
• Human Trafficking and Healthcare Organizations
• Human Trafficking: Process, Causes and Effects
• Child Welfare and Human Trafficking
• Child Welfare: Human Trafficking in San Diego
• Anti Slavery and Abolitionism
• Equiano’s Influence and Narrative
• Depicting the Problem of Sex Trafficking
• Social Psychology of Modern Slavery